Comparison of neuro-developmental status in preterm neonates with and without family based interventions

Objective: Preterm neonates are at risk of neuro-developmental delay. Proper contribution of parents may influence on their neurocognitive development. We aimed to compare neurodevelopmental status in preterm infants less than 1 year with and without parents based intervention. Methods: A randomized controlled trial study (IRCT; IRCT201705079568N17) was done at NICU of Vali e asr Hospital (Tehran-Iran) in 2010-2011. During this period, parents of preterm neonates were trained to do some simple instructions for their children like performing gentle skin massage, hydrotherapy (water game), and use of mental targeted games. Control group composed of preterm infants whose parents refused regular visits, receiving consultation and training. They only received routine care and visits. Neurodevelopment status of children were evaluated based on WHO Milestones Chart, ASQ at enrollment time and a year later, then recorded data were compared between 2 groups. Results: Forty five children in the control group and 48 in the intervention group were compared. The results showed that that after one year intervention, improvement of motor (P value=0.03), sensory (P value=0.005), and language abilities (p